AN ARMY reservist mum has taken on a gruelling challenge for a cause close to her heart.

Kate Jenkins, from Radcliffe, took part in the 46 mile Ride London event raising money for CLIMB, a charity which supports those with rare genetic condition known as MCADD.

Her son, Thomas was diagnosed with the condition at five days old after he had a newborn heel prick test. It means one-year-old Thomas has problems breaking down fat , leading to lack of energy and a build up of harmful substances in the body.

Kate completed the ride in approximately four hours including breaks.

She said: “From start to finish, the support around the course was amazing. There were people outside their own homes offering refreshments.Thomas, my partner and my dad were there to support me at the finish line.

“It was just a great experience and obviously raising for a charity so close to my heart means a lot.”

After originally setting a target of £500, Kate has raised an impressive £1,671.71 so

far.

“I have not really done a sponsored event before and not everybody has got a lot to give so I went through my Facebook friends and just thought if everybody donated 50p that could get me around £500 but I know people have donated £100. I have been blown away with everybody’s generosity.”

MCADD affects one in every 8000 babies and since Thomas’ diagnosis the family have received invaluable support from CLIMB. The charity provides information as well as hosting conventions.

Kate said: “They are a small charity so they aren’t as recognised as the bigger ones, but they do go out of their way to support you.”

She hopes to take part in the Tour de Bolton next month.

Donations can be made on Kate’s Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/k-jenkins1